Biometrics Will Help Officials Accurately Verify the Identity of Seafarers

The Ministry of Transportation in Indonesia has chosen 3M to implement its new Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID). Beginning mid-year, Indonesia, a major country of origin of sea-going maritime personnel, will generate new SIDs using the 3M Identity Document Issuance System.

Biometric identity verification features of the 3M Identity Document Issuance System convert seafarers’ fingerprints into a biometric template and encode those prints into a two-dimensional bar code printed on the SID. Authorities compare “live” fingerprints of the SID holder with encoded data to positively identify the seafarer and check document authenticity. This internationally standardized biometric attribute meets the identity document standards set by the International Labour Organization and helps ensure interoperability – biometrics written by the government of Indonesia can be read by other countries.

“3M’s Identity Document Issuance System will move Indonesia to the forefront of maritime security,” said Rich Sanders, business manager, 3M Security Systems Division. “3M’s Identity Document Issuance System provides the link between process automation, biometric technologies and data auditing that is critical to the implementation of a secure Seafarers’ ID issuance system. The rapid implementation of this system will help protect the Indonesian seafarers’ rights and grant them easier entry to foreign ports.”

The 3M Identity Document Issuance System also helps ensure document security by issuing identification documents only to those who are entitled and authorized to receive them.

3M brings more than 30 years of experience, a global presence, technical innovation and a strong customer focus to the secure document marketplace. 3M solutions cover a broad spectrum of enhanced travel and border security, including document issuance and border management.

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3M Security SystemsJoan M. Olseen, 651-736-1163or3M Public RelationsConnie S. Thompson, 651-733-8914http://www.3M.com/PressContact